Pleated filters: good at removing the larger particles, but even better when electro-statically charged

There are many different types of furnace filters – in increasing order of effectiveness: fiberglass or polyester furnace filters, electrostatic filters, and pleated filters.

Furnace filters consist of coarse glass fibers that can remove only up to 75% of the larger particles (greater than 10 micron), such as hair lint and some pollen. Because they are ineffective at removing anything smaller, they are no help with airborne materials that cause allergies or sickness.

Electrostatic furnace filters pick up a static charge as the air flows through the filter, and can keep up to 95% of the larger particles at bay, and less than 20% of medium sized (0.3 to 1 micron) particles. They need to be cleaned regularly otherwise they quickly become less effective.

Pleated filters remove up to 99% of larger particles, and up to 55% of the medium sized particles. This means they can capture micro particles and allergens such as pet dander, mold, some bacteria, carpet lint, dust mite feces, and pollen.

Pleated air filters can also be electrostatically charged to trap even smaller particles than 0.3 microns.

Also, electrostatically charged filters, such as the 3M filtrete, can capture up to 73% of medium sized particles, making these hybrid filters very good value.

Pleated filters are usually made from cotton or polyester, but what they all have in common is that they have a larger surface area than the other two filter types. They need to be replaced regularly – about every three months.

Most filters are 1” thick, and the filters are available in a variety of sizes, so make sure that you know what size to purchase.

There are also thicker pleated filters on the market: 4”, 5” or 6” thick. They are more effective, but they can only be used on systems that have the capacity to accept them.

Finally, these filters all help with removing airborne particles to various degrees, and not only work when the conditioning/heater is on, so here’s a tip.
If spring is in full swing, and somebody in the household suffers from hay fever, turn on the fan only. They’ll thank you for it!

For more information on related products, please choose from the following:

 Whole House Purifiers | Replacement Filters